Checking
Maximize your checking: Compare high-yield checking accounts, no-fee checking accounts and more.
Explore checking basics
From no fees to online bill pay, here are the must-have checking account features.
If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Get started with a checking account
Checking
Available balance vs. current balance
Learn about the two separate balances you may see when looking at your bank account.
Checking
Checking account fees
Learn about the different kinds of checking account fees and what you can do to avoid them.
Checking
Bank account alerts to protect your money
Explore the types of bank account alerts you can set up to help you stay informed about your finances whenever and wherever you are.
Experts in all things banking
Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.
About Bankrate
Bankrate Financial Analyst
Principal U.S. Economy Reporter
Senior Economic Analyst
Compare top-rated banks
Learn more
- Introduction to Checking Accounts
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
Finding the account of your dreams comes down to knowing what you want and the features you value most.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
Setting up direct deposit is typically easy and can save you a lot of time. Here’s how.
Latest articles
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
Here are easy actions you can take to avoid the fee of get it waived.
Stop wasting time writing checks. Learn the faster, safer way to pay.
Here’s what you need to know about this high-yield checking promo.
Get your tax refund faster and more securely by setting up direct deposit. Learn how to avoid common mistakes.
Electronic checks (eChecks) offer a digital alternative to traditional paper checks, allowing you to make payments directly from your checking account online. Learn how eChecks work, when to use them, [...]
Looking to save money when ordering checks? Consider getting them online instead. Here’s how.
A bounced check is something that should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Here’s how to boost your savings.
Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Here’s how to boost your savings.
Sometimes paying an early withdrawal penalty on a CD isn’t a bad idea.
The National Credit Union Administration is similar to the FDIC, which covers banks.
Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged at its first meeting of 2026, keeping borrowing costs in a target range of 3.5-3.75%. This decision (supported by a 10-2 vote) pauses a streak of three [...]
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information